Are split ends causing you to tear your hair out? Never fear, we are here to help you understand what causes them and how to prevent them from returning.
First things first, we will dispel the myth that split ends can be repaired. Really, the only way to “cure” split ends is to cut them off. If you opt to treat them, the hair shafts will, in most cases, continue to split higher up the strand. Experts suggest cutting off the damaged portions, and then having your hair professionally trimmed every six weeks to prevent split ends from returning.
Now that you have trimmed off the damage, what can you do, or NOT do, to keep those ugly split ends from coming back?
Let’s start from the inside out. If your hair is dull and in poor shape, it could be related to your diet. A low-fat diet will certainly have a negative impact. Like your body, your hair needs healthy fats, like olive oil and fish oil to shine, bounce and stay hydrated. When it comes to healthy hair, ensure you are eating a balanced and healthy diet, getting the required amount of vitamins and minerals and incorporating healthy fats into your food.
Be gentle with your hair to prevent split ends from occurring. Brushing wet hair causes your hair shafts to stretch up to 25% more than dry hair. If you feel you must untangle your wet hair, try pat drying your hair first with a towel, and then use a wide toothed comb. Back-combing is also damaging to your hair structure. The process of teasing or back-combing will disrupt your hair’s epidermis, causing breakage. Coloring or bleaching your hair also makes the condition of your hair worse, and more susceptible to splitting.
Stay moisturized! Dry/brittle hair tends to split faster. Keep your hair from drying out with quality hair oils or a good conditioning treatment. Gently brushing your hair, when it is not damp or wet, will distribute your natural scalp oils throughout each strand.
Finally, avoid heated appliances whenever possible to protect your locks. The heating agents in appliances like curling irons, flat irons, hair dryers, etc. will dry out and damage your hair. If you can’t resist your favorite heated hair tools, be sure to use protective styling products beforehand.
If you notice your hair is thinning, it may be due to split ends that have split all the way up to your scalp.
By: Barbie Pascal
